Space camp author to share story

DOWNEY - Author and teacher Mike Kersjes will speak and sign books at a special event Nov. 9 inside council chambers at City Hall.The free program is sponsored by the Downey City Library and begins at 7 p.m. Kersjes is the author of "A Smile as Big as the Moon: a Teacher, His Class and Their Unforgettable Journey." A special education teacher, Kersjes taught students with disabilities ranging from Tourette's syndrome and Down's syndrome to dyslexia and a variety of emotional disorders. One autumn, he got the idea that his students would benefit from attending NASA's Space Camp, competing in activities similar to those experienced by astronauts in training. There was only one problem: the program was designed for gifted and talented students. Kersjes believed that, if given the chance, his kids could do as well as anyone in the program. His book is the inspirational story of how he and his students broke down barriers to attend and succeed at Space Camp. "Mike's story is an example of how one teacher's faith and vision can yield amazing results," said Claudia Dailey, the library's literacy coordinator. "We encourage teachers, parents and their families to attend." The event is presented as part of the library's "One Book, One Community" reading of "Rocket Boys" with programs on a space theme. Copies of Kersjes' book will be available for purchase and signing at the event. For more information, call (562) 904-7360, ext. 132.

********** Published: October 30, 2009 - Volume 8 - Issue 28